The name “Miller” became the “First Family” of Notre Dame football producing several generations of Fighting Irish greats that span the history of the university’s storied football program. The long line began with Martin Harold Miller better known as Harry or “Red” back in 1906. In fact if it wasn’t for Red Miller Notre Dame might not have become the football powerhouse that attracted a young college hopeful named Knute Rockne. It was Red Miller’s gridiron exploits that made Notre Dame a household name one of the first non-Ivy League schools to become known for football. Miller was the university’s first All-American and was captain of the 1908 team that outscored opponents 326-20 on their way to winning the Western Championship the following season. After Red the university saw a succession of Millers. First came Red’s four younger brothers Ray Walter Gerry and Don the latter being one of the famed “Four Horsemen.” The family tradition lived on when Red’s two sons later starred for the Irish in the early 1940’s.

This Sterling silver (hallmarked inside) cigarette case was owned by Red Miller and remained in the Miller family until 2005. Measuring 4" by 3.25" and weighing 4.5 ounces the pebbled outer case shows some tarnishing and the amount of surface wear expected on a well-used case. The interior retains the art deco cigarette retainers and the outside of the case had the initials “MHM” (Martin Harold Miller) in raised letters. A wonderful link to the very beginning of Notre Dame’s football prowess.

Includes letter of provenance from Red Miller's youngest son.